Thermofoil vs painted MDF on a recent kitchen job, curious what you all would've done

Had a client last month who wanted slab doors but was on a tight budget. I priced out thermofoil at $45 a door and painted MDF at $68 a door. Client picked thermofoil because of the savings. First week in, steam from the dishwasher already started lifting the edge on one of the panels. Now I'm wondering if I should've pushed harder for the painted option or if there's a way to make thermofoil hold up better in high moisture spots. Anyone else run into this call and regret it?

2 comments

2 Comments

dakota1603d ago

Painted MDF was the smarter call every time in a kitchen. Thermofoil is basically plastic wrap on particle board, it won't hold up near steam or heat long term. You're not wrong for giving them the cheaper option, but that edge lift is just the start of the problems. They'll be kicking themselves when more panels start peeling in a year.

oscarmurphy4d ago

Thermofoil's tough in a kitchen with any kind of humidity, especially near a dishwasher. You probably saved them money upfront but that edge lift is a common headache with steam exposure.